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Same-sex marriages divide United Methodist clergy

The debate over same-sex marriage is
dividing members of the clergy within the United Methodist Church.

During their annual conference in St. Cloud, dozens of Minnesota
United Methodist clergy signed a statement saying they would marry
any couple who came to them, including same-sex couples.

Reverend Bruce Robbins of the Hennepin Avenue United Methodist
Church in Minneapolis says initially had about a dozen of his
colleagues signed the statement, but by Wednesday night, that
number had grown to 40. The statement isn't part of the annual
conference.

Bishop Sally Dyck says the statement doesn't break church rules.
However, she says the church discipline forbids same-sex marriage,
and clergy who perform the ceremonies could lose their conference
membership, or clergy credentials.

WJON reports about 900 voting members
are attending the conference in St. Cloud this week.